Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta: The Crispiest, Easiest Recipe

Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta: Crispy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible! Have you ever craved the comforting flavors of lasagna but wanted a fun, shareable appetizer instead? Well, prepare to be amazed! This recipe transforms the classic Italian comfort food into golden-brown, bite-sized pieces of pure deliciousness, all thanks to the magic of the air fryer.

Lasagna Fritta, meaning “fried lasagna,” has its roots in the Campania region of Italy, particularly Naples. It was traditionally a way to use up leftover lasagna, transforming it into a delightful snack or appetizer. Think of it as a resourceful and incredibly tasty way to avoid food waste! While traditionally deep-fried, our Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta recipe offers a healthier, equally satisfying alternative.

What’s not to love? The crispy exterior gives way to a warm, cheesy, and savory interior that’s simply addictive. People adore this dish because it’s a delightful twist on a familiar favorite. It’s perfect for parties, game days, or even a fun weeknight treat. Plus, using the air fryer makes it incredibly convenient and quick to prepare, without all the mess and extra oil of deep frying. Get ready to experience lasagna in a whole new, incredibly delicious way!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Béchamel Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground white pepper to taste
• For the Meat Sauce:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup finely chopped carrot
• 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Lasagna Filling:
• 15 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package directions and cooled
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese, whole milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Breading:
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For Air Frying:
• Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil)
• For Serving:
• Marinara sauce, warmed (optional)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Chopped fresh basil (optional)

Preparing the Béchamel Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce. Make sure not to brown the roux too much, you want it to remain a pale blonde color.
2. Gradually whisk in the warm milk, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. This prevents lumps from forming. Continue whisking until all the milk is added and the sauce is smooth.
3. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened to a nappe consistency (meaning it coats the back of a spoon).
4. Remove from heat and stir in the nutmeg, salt, and white pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Set aside to cool slightly. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.

Making the Meat Sauce:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
5. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Set aside to cool slightly.

Assembling the Lasagna Rolls:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
2. Lay a cooked lasagna noodle flat on a clean work surface. Spread a thin layer of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the noodle, leaving a small border at the edges.
3. Spoon a generous amount of the meat sauce over the ricotta cheese layer.
4. Carefully roll up the lasagna noodle tightly, starting from one end. Repeat with the remaining noodles, ricotta mixture, and meat sauce.
5. Once all the lasagna rolls are assembled, place them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This will make them easier to handle during the breading process. You can even chill them overnight for best results.

Breading the Lasagna Rolls:

1. Prepare a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the flour and season with salt and pepper. In the second dish, beat the eggs. In the third dish, place the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs.
2. Remove the lasagna rolls from the refrigerator. One at a time, dredge each roll in the flour, shaking off any excess.
3. Dip the floured roll into the beaten eggs, making sure it is fully coated.
4. Finally, dredge the egg-coated roll in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere to the entire surface.
5. Place the breaded lasagna rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Air Frying the Lasagna Fritta:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
3. Place the breaded lasagna rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. You may need to cook them in batches.
4. Spray the tops of the lasagna rolls with cooking spray. This will help them get nice and golden brown.
5. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the lasagna rolls are golden brown and heated through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Carefully remove the lasagna fritta from the air fryer and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly.

Serving:

1. Serve the Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta immediately while they are still hot and crispy.
2. Optional: Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
3. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil, if desired.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! Our Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta recipe is more than just a snack; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to happen. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves Italian food, enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, or simply wants a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s surprisingly easy to make. The crispy, golden exterior gives way to a warm, cheesy, and flavorful interior that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds!).

What makes this recipe so special? First, the air fryer cuts down on the grease and calories compared to traditional deep-fried lasagna fritta, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Second, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, perfect for those busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. And third, the flavor combination of the rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and perfectly melted mozzarella is simply irresistible. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will tantalize your taste buds.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions and variations. For a classic presentation, serve your Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal. You could also drizzle it with a balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy contrast.

Looking for variations? Consider using different types of cheese, such as provolone or fontina, for a unique flavor profile. You could also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the ricotta mixture for extra nutrients and texture. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try using different types of pasta, such as ravioli or tortellini, instead of lasagna sheets. The possibilities are endless!

This Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta is truly a versatile and adaptable recipe. It’s perfect as an appetizer for parties, a snack for movie nights, or even a light meal paired with a salad. It’s also a great way to use up leftover lasagna ingredients. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m so excited for you to try it. I encourage you to give it a go and experience the magic of Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta for yourself. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? What did you think? Did you make any modifications? Share your photos and stories with me in the comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Let’s spread the love for this delicious and easy-to-make treat. Happy cooking, and enjoy your Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta! I am sure you will love this Air Fryer Lasagna Fritta as much as I do!